The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed that a suspected case of meningitis near Wolverhampton has turned out to be false. Parents and guardians of children at St Nicholas CE First School in Codsall were notified earlier this week about a suspected case of the disease affecting a Year 4 pupil.
At the time, it was advised that children should not be kept away from school unless instructed by a medical professional. Headteacher Miss Parker expressed her thoughts for the hospitalized pupil in a message seen by BlackCountryLive.
On Friday, May 1, the UKHSA announced that tests showed the child does not have meningitis. A spokesperson stated: "The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) in the West Midlands was notified of a suspected case of meningococcal infection in a pupil at St Nicholas CE First School in Codsall, South Staffordshire. Tests indicate this is not a case of bacterial meningococcal infection. The UKHSA West Midlands Health Protection Team has liaised with the school and advised that no public health measures are necessary."
Symptoms of Meningitis and Sepsis
According to the NHS, symptoms of meningitis and sepsis include:
- a high temperature
- cold hands and feet
- vomiting
- confusion
- breathing quickly
- muscle and joint pain
- pale, mottled or blotchy skin (may be harder to see on brown or black skin)
- spots or a rash (may be harder to see on brown or black skin)
- headache
- a stiff neck
- a dislike of bright lights
- being very sleepy or difficult to wake
- fits (seizures)
Babies may also:
- refuse feeds
- be irritable
- have a high-pitched cry
- have a stiff body or be floppy or unresponsive
- have a bulging soft spot on the top of their head
The NHS adds: "Someone with meningitis or sepsis can get a lot worse very quickly. Call 999 for an ambulance or go to your nearest A&E immediately if you think you or someone you look after could have meningitis or sepsis. Use NHS 111 online or call NHS 111 for advice if you're not sure if it's anything serious. If you’ve had medical advice and are still worried or any symptoms get worse, get medical help again."
